BWW Review: Spectacular Sleepwalking in Bellini's SONNAMBULA at Juilliard Opera
by Richard Sasanow - February 17, 2016
It's a shame that Bellini wasn't Donizetti--because the story of LA SONNAMBULA seems to be begging for the full comic treatment and could have been a great companion to L'ELISIR D'AMORE. (I'm not sure how Maria Callas would have felt about changes in one of her great roles.) As it stands, performing the semi-serious work in a concert format--as The Juilliard Opera did last week--is the next best thing, putting the emphasis on the music and the virtuoso singing it calls for and less on the absurd storyline.
by Richard Sasanow - February 17, 2016
It's a shame that Bellini wasn't Donizetti--because the story of LA SONNAMBULA seems to be begging for the full comic treatment and could have been a great companion to L'ELISIR D'AMORE. (I'm not sure how Maria Callas would have felt about changes in one of her great roles.) As it stands, performing the semi-serious work in a concert format--as The Juilliard Opera did last week--is the next best thing, putting the emphasis on the music and the virtuoso singing it calls for and less on the absurd storyline.
Met Opera Presents GAY NIGHT AT LA CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA Tonight
by BWW News Desk - February 17, 2016
The Met Opera invites you to Gay Night at La Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci. Opera's indomitable double bill returns in Sir David McVicar's searing production from the 2014–15 season. Tenor Yonghoon Lee and mezzo-soprano Violeta Urmana star in Cavalleria Rusticana, the tragedy of ancient codes and illicit love, Sicilian style. In Pagliacci (the second half of the pair of verismo potboilers), tenor Roberto Alagna is the murderous clown Canio and soprano Barbara Frittoli is his philandering wife. Use code MENEVENTCAV and get orchestra balance seats for only $99* (reg $115) plus a Gay Reception during the first intermission at the Grand Tier Bar (near the windows overlooking the fountain). Just bring your ticket to TheMenEvent representative at the party to get your drink ticket valid for a free glass of sparkling wine.
by BWW News Desk - February 17, 2016
The Met Opera invites you to Gay Night at La Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci. Opera's indomitable double bill returns in Sir David McVicar's searing production from the 2014–15 season. Tenor Yonghoon Lee and mezzo-soprano Violeta Urmana star in Cavalleria Rusticana, the tragedy of ancient codes and illicit love, Sicilian style. In Pagliacci (the second half of the pair of verismo potboilers), tenor Roberto Alagna is the murderous clown Canio and soprano Barbara Frittoli is his philandering wife. Use code MENEVENTCAV and get orchestra balance seats for only $99* (reg $115) plus a Gay Reception during the first intermission at the Grand Tier Bar (near the windows overlooking the fountain). Just bring your ticket to TheMenEvent representative at the party to get your drink ticket valid for a free glass of sparkling wine.
Opera Philadelphia Announces 'Provocative' 2016-2017 Season
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
Opera Philadelphia's 2016-2017 Season serves notice that the company is, as the Washington Post reports, “the very model of a modern opera company.” As General Director & President David B. Devan and Jack Mulroney Music Director Corrado Rovaris announced today, the 2016-2017 Season takes a bold first step towards the company's new “binge-watching” format, packing three productions into an 11-day period in fall 2016 while offering two additional operas in spring 2017. Devan describes the slate as an “exciting warm up” to fall 2017, when the company will begin launching each annual season with a 12-day festival featuring seven operatic happenings across multiple venues.
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
Opera Philadelphia's 2016-2017 Season serves notice that the company is, as the Washington Post reports, “the very model of a modern opera company.” As General Director & President David B. Devan and Jack Mulroney Music Director Corrado Rovaris announced today, the 2016-2017 Season takes a bold first step towards the company's new “binge-watching” format, packing three productions into an 11-day period in fall 2016 while offering two additional operas in spring 2017. Devan describes the slate as an “exciting warm up” to fall 2017, when the company will begin launching each annual season with a 12-day festival featuring seven operatic happenings across multiple venues.
Sarasota Opera to Close Verdi Cycle with VERDI FESTIVAL WEEK, 3/15
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
Sarasota, FL – Sarasota Opera's 2016 Winter Opera Festival season, a landmark in the company's 57 year history, will mark the final year of the Verdi Cycle, a 28-season initiative to perform the complete works of Giuseppe Verdi. The season will culminate in a Verdi Festival Week March 15 – 20 which will include performances of Verdi's Aida and The Battle of Legnano, two concerts of Verdi's music, a retrospective exhibit on the Verdi Cycle, an International Verdi Conference, and many more commemorative events. At the conclusion of the Verdi Cycle, Sarasota Opera will be theonly company in the world to have performed every work of Giuseppe Verdi.
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
Sarasota, FL – Sarasota Opera's 2016 Winter Opera Festival season, a landmark in the company's 57 year history, will mark the final year of the Verdi Cycle, a 28-season initiative to perform the complete works of Giuseppe Verdi. The season will culminate in a Verdi Festival Week March 15 – 20 which will include performances of Verdi's Aida and The Battle of Legnano, two concerts of Verdi's music, a retrospective exhibit on the Verdi Cycle, an International Verdi Conference, and many more commemorative events. At the conclusion of the Verdi Cycle, Sarasota Opera will be theonly company in the world to have performed every work of Giuseppe Verdi.
Long Beach Opera to Present HOPE AND HEALING This Weekend
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
On Saturday afternoon, February 20, 2016, Long Beach Opera (LBO) presents HOPE AND HEALING at the Veterans Administration Hospital of Long Beach.
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
On Saturday afternoon, February 20, 2016, Long Beach Opera (LBO) presents HOPE AND HEALING at the Veterans Administration Hospital of Long Beach.
Opera Australia to Launch NSW Schools Tour with HANSEL AND GRETEL, 2/22
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
February 2016: Opera Australia's touring program will present the opera version of Hansel and Gretel to NSW schools, launching at Marrickville West Primary School on Friday 19 February, 2016.
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
February 2016: Opera Australia's touring program will present the opera version of Hansel and Gretel to NSW schools, launching at Marrickville West Primary School on Friday 19 February, 2016.
Met Opera to Present GAY NIGHT AT LA CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA, Today
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
The Met Opera invites you to Gay Night at La Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci. Opera's indomitable double bill returns in Sir David McVicar's searing production from the 2014–15 season. Tenor Yonghoon Lee and mezzo-soprano Violeta Urmana star in Cavalleria Rusticana, the tragedy of ancient codes and illicit love, Sicilian style. In Pagliacci (the second half of the pair of verismo potboilers), tenor Roberto Alagna is the murderous clown Canio and soprano Barbara Frittoli is his philandering wife. Use code MENEVENTCAV and get orchestra balance seats for only $99* (reg $115) plus a Gay Reception during the first intermission at the Grand Tier Bar (near the windows overlooking the fountain). Just bring your ticket to TheMenEvent representative at the party to get your drink ticket valid for a free glass of sparkling wine.
by BWW News Desk - February 16, 2016
The Met Opera invites you to Gay Night at La Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci. Opera's indomitable double bill returns in Sir David McVicar's searing production from the 2014–15 season. Tenor Yonghoon Lee and mezzo-soprano Violeta Urmana star in Cavalleria Rusticana, the tragedy of ancient codes and illicit love, Sicilian style. In Pagliacci (the second half of the pair of verismo potboilers), tenor Roberto Alagna is the murderous clown Canio and soprano Barbara Frittoli is his philandering wife. Use code MENEVENTCAV and get orchestra balance seats for only $99* (reg $115) plus a Gay Reception during the first intermission at the Grand Tier Bar (near the windows overlooking the fountain). Just bring your ticket to TheMenEvent representative at the party to get your drink ticket valid for a free glass of sparkling wine.
BWW Review: An ALT-ernative View of Opera for the 21st Century
by Richard Sasanow - February 16, 2016
Opera for the 21st century is more than setting RUSALKA in a whorehouse, populating RIGOLETTO with a cast of apes or sending MARIA STUARDA to a maximum security prison. It must start with a different vocabulary for the words and music--one that still appeals to traditional audiences while also being true to new listeners. Achieving that goal is not easy. As American Lyric Theater (ALT)--founded by Lawrence Edelson in 2005--puts it, “Great Operas Don't Just Happen.”
by Richard Sasanow - February 16, 2016
Opera for the 21st century is more than setting RUSALKA in a whorehouse, populating RIGOLETTO with a cast of apes or sending MARIA STUARDA to a maximum security prison. It must start with a different vocabulary for the words and music--one that still appeals to traditional audiences while also being true to new listeners. Achieving that goal is not easy. As American Lyric Theater (ALT)--founded by Lawrence Edelson in 2005--puts it, “Great Operas Don't Just Happen.”
Photo Flash: Tenor Anthony Kearns Sings at Pre-Mass Concert for Pope Francis
by BWW News Desk - February 14, 2016
Below, check out new photos from world-renowned tenor Anthony Kearns' performance to honor Pope Francis I during his historic 2015 U.S. trip!
by BWW News Desk - February 14, 2016
Below, check out new photos from world-renowned tenor Anthony Kearns' performance to honor Pope Francis I during his historic 2015 U.S. trip!
Operadagen Rotterdam Nominated for Classical:NEXT Innovation Award
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Operadagen Rotterdam is longlisted for the prestigious Classical:NEXT Innovation Award, being the only Dutch organisation nominated for an award.
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Operadagen Rotterdam is longlisted for the prestigious Classical:NEXT Innovation Award, being the only Dutch organisation nominated for an award.
BWW Interview Part 2: Grimsley Discusses Opera, Sports and Singers as Athletes
by Erica Miner - February 12, 2016
What it takes to reach the 'Opera Hall of Fame'
by Erica Miner - February 12, 2016
What it takes to reach the 'Opera Hall of Fame'
Hub Opera Ensemble and MSO To Present CARMEN
by Johnna Leary - February 12, 2016
Tragic love affairs are nothing new for opera story lines. However, in time for Valentine's Day, Hub Opera Ensemble will present one of opera's most famous love stories, Carmen, in a uniquely imaginative way at a new location.
by Johnna Leary - February 12, 2016
Tragic love affairs are nothing new for opera story lines. However, in time for Valentine's Day, Hub Opera Ensemble will present one of opera's most famous love stories, Carmen, in a uniquely imaginative way at a new location.
New Production of Puccini's Romance MANON LESCAUT to Open This Month at the Met
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
The Met's new production of Puccini's MANON LESCAUT opens February 12 with Kristine Opolais as the seductive, tragic heroine and Roberto Alagna in a role debut as her ardent lover, the Chevalier des Grieux.
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
The Met's new production of Puccini's MANON LESCAUT opens February 12 with Kristine Opolais as the seductive, tragic heroine and Roberto Alagna in a role debut as her ardent lover, the Chevalier des Grieux.
The Pikes Peak Opera League Announces Fifth Annual Gala Event, Today
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
The Pikes Peak Opera League is excited to present its fifth annual Gala Event on February 12 at the Antlers Hotel to benefit Opera Theatre of the Rockies. This special evening begins with a Social Hour and a Silent Auction including such items as an Elegant Gatsby Summer Garden Party for 20, a three-day Bed and Breakfast Getaway in lovely Cascade, Zipline Adventures, Vintage Jewelry and a golf package at the Club at Flying Horse. Highlights of the evening's music program to be presented after dinner include singers Stephanie Brink, Amalia Dobbins, Amy Mushall and Solveig Olsen along with Humberto Borboa and Malcolm Ulbrick offering arias and musical theater excerpts from Egypt, India, Greece, Algeria, China and Japan. Daniel Brink will be at the piano. The concert reflects the theme of the Gala, 'A Magic Carpet Ride to Exotic Locales.'
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
The Pikes Peak Opera League is excited to present its fifth annual Gala Event on February 12 at the Antlers Hotel to benefit Opera Theatre of the Rockies. This special evening begins with a Social Hour and a Silent Auction including such items as an Elegant Gatsby Summer Garden Party for 20, a three-day Bed and Breakfast Getaway in lovely Cascade, Zipline Adventures, Vintage Jewelry and a golf package at the Club at Flying Horse. Highlights of the evening's music program to be presented after dinner include singers Stephanie Brink, Amalia Dobbins, Amy Mushall and Solveig Olsen along with Humberto Borboa and Malcolm Ulbrick offering arias and musical theater excerpts from Egypt, India, Greece, Algeria, China and Japan. Daniel Brink will be at the piano. The concert reflects the theme of the Gala, 'A Magic Carpet Ride to Exotic Locales.'
Ecce Ensemble to Premiere SWITCH Opera, Today
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Cambridge, MA (FOR RELEASE 1.11.16) — As the 2015-16 contemporary music ensemble-in-residence at Cambridge's Le Laboratoire, the Ecce Ensemble premieres Switch, a contemporary opera written and composed by John Aylward, directed by Laine Rettmer (Loft Opera), and conducted by Jean-Philippe Wurtz (Ensemble Linea). Featuring two vocalists—Amanda DeBoer Bartlett (soprano) and Mikhail Smigelskii (bass-baritone)—backed by the Ecce Ensemble, Switch explores the relationship between an artist and his muse. In addition to two consecutive weekends of performances, Ecce hosts two free, complementary events open to the public at Le Lab: Re-Imagining Contemporary Opera, an artist talk with Aylward and Rettmer on February 3rd at 6:30 p.m.; and Composers' Reading Session, a workshop/presentation of young local composers' chamber works led by Wurtz on February 15th at 12:00 p.m.
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Cambridge, MA (FOR RELEASE 1.11.16) — As the 2015-16 contemporary music ensemble-in-residence at Cambridge's Le Laboratoire, the Ecce Ensemble premieres Switch, a contemporary opera written and composed by John Aylward, directed by Laine Rettmer (Loft Opera), and conducted by Jean-Philippe Wurtz (Ensemble Linea). Featuring two vocalists—Amanda DeBoer Bartlett (soprano) and Mikhail Smigelskii (bass-baritone)—backed by the Ecce Ensemble, Switch explores the relationship between an artist and his muse. In addition to two consecutive weekends of performances, Ecce hosts two free, complementary events open to the public at Le Lab: Re-Imagining Contemporary Opera, an artist talk with Aylward and Rettmer on February 3rd at 6:30 p.m.; and Composers' Reading Session, a workshop/presentation of young local composers' chamber works led by Wurtz on February 15th at 12:00 p.m.
Ecce Ensemble to Present World Premiere of SWITCH Opera, Today
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Cambridge, MA (FOR RELEASE 1.11.16) — As the 2015-16 contemporary music ensemble-in-residence at Cambridge's Le Laboratoire, the Ecce Ensemble premieres Switch, a contemporary opera written and composed by John Aylward, directed by Laine Rettmer (Loft Opera), and conducted by Jean-Philippe Wurtz (Ensemble Linea). Featuring two vocalists—Amanda DeBoer Bartlett (soprano) and Mikhail Smigelskii (bass-baritone)—backed by the Ecce Ensemble, Switch explores the relationship between an artist and his muse. In addition to two consecutive weekends of performances, Ecce hosts two free, complementary events open to the public at Le Lab: Re-Imagining Contemporary Opera, an artist talk with Aylward and Rettmer on February 3rd at 6:30 p.m.; and Composers' Reading Session, a workshop/presentation of young local composers' chamber works led by Wurtz on February 15th at 12:00 p.m.
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Cambridge, MA (FOR RELEASE 1.11.16) — As the 2015-16 contemporary music ensemble-in-residence at Cambridge's Le Laboratoire, the Ecce Ensemble premieres Switch, a contemporary opera written and composed by John Aylward, directed by Laine Rettmer (Loft Opera), and conducted by Jean-Philippe Wurtz (Ensemble Linea). Featuring two vocalists—Amanda DeBoer Bartlett (soprano) and Mikhail Smigelskii (bass-baritone)—backed by the Ecce Ensemble, Switch explores the relationship between an artist and his muse. In addition to two consecutive weekends of performances, Ecce hosts two free, complementary events open to the public at Le Lab: Re-Imagining Contemporary Opera, an artist talk with Aylward and Rettmer on February 3rd at 6:30 p.m.; and Composers' Reading Session, a workshop/presentation of young local composers' chamber works led by Wurtz on February 15th at 12:00 p.m.
Washington National Opera to Open 2016 with Apartheid-Era Opera LOST IN THE STARS
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Washington National Opera (WNO) continues its 60th anniversary season with the company premiere of Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson's LOST IN THE STARS, February 12-20 in the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater.
by BWW News Desk - February 12, 2016
Washington National Opera (WNO) continues its 60th anniversary season with the company premiere of Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson's LOST IN THE STARS, February 12-20 in the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater.
Photo Flash: First Look at LOST IN THE STARS at Washington National Opera
by BWW News Desk - February 11, 2016
Washington National Opera (WNO) continues its 60th anniversary season with the company premiere of Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson's LOST IN THE STARS, tomorrow, February 12, through February 20 in the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater. BroadwayWorld has a first look at the cast in action below!
by BWW News Desk - February 11, 2016
Washington National Opera (WNO) continues its 60th anniversary season with the company premiere of Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson's LOST IN THE STARS, tomorrow, February 12, through February 20 in the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater. BroadwayWorld has a first look at the cast in action below!
Greer Grimsley is the Nicest Villain in Opera: Part 1
by Erica Miner - February 11, 2016
'Opera God' opens San Diego Opera season with one of his signature roles
by Erica Miner - February 11, 2016
'Opera God' opens San Diego Opera season with one of his signature roles
Metropolitan Opera Announces MADAMA BUTTERFLY Cast Update
by BWW News Desk - February 10, 2016
Ana María Martínez will sing her first Met performances of Cio-Cio-San in Puccini's Madama Butterfly on February 19 and 22, replacing Hei-Kyung Hong, who is ill. Hong is scheduled to sing the performances on February 25, March 2 and 5, as previously announced.
by BWW News Desk - February 10, 2016
Ana María Martínez will sing her first Met performances of Cio-Cio-San in Puccini's Madama Butterfly on February 19 and 22, replacing Hei-Kyung Hong, who is ill. Hong is scheduled to sing the performances on February 25, March 2 and 5, as previously announced.
Sofia Coppola Makes Operatic Debut in New Production of Verdi's LA TRAVIATA, May 24
by BWW News Desk - February 10, 2016
Carlo Fuortes, General Manager of the Rome Opera House Foundation, announces a new production of La Traviata, premiering May 24, 2016, directed by Academy Award winner, Sofia Coppola.
by BWW News Desk - February 10, 2016
Carlo Fuortes, General Manager of the Rome Opera House Foundation, announces a new production of La Traviata, premiering May 24, 2016, directed by Academy Award winner, Sofia Coppola.
BWW Review: Chabrier's EDUCATION Makes for a Charming but 'Incomplete' Evening from Opera Lafayette
by Richard Sasanow - February 10, 2016
There's a great Scottish word that came to mind while I was watching Emmanuel Chabrier's one-act French operetta, UNE EDUCATION MANQUEE (AN INCOMPLETE EDUCATION), this past weekend by Washington, DC's Opera Lafayette at the French Institute-Alliance Francaise in New York. It's “twee,” which roughly translates as “affectedly dainty” or “quaint.” The French don't seem to have an equivalent; the closest I could come up with is “mignon,” which means “cute” and doesn't quite fit the bill for this slight-yet-charming piece of Gallic fluff.
by Richard Sasanow - February 10, 2016
There's a great Scottish word that came to mind while I was watching Emmanuel Chabrier's one-act French operetta, UNE EDUCATION MANQUEE (AN INCOMPLETE EDUCATION), this past weekend by Washington, DC's Opera Lafayette at the French Institute-Alliance Francaise in New York. It's “twee,” which roughly translates as “affectedly dainty” or “quaint.” The French don't seem to have an equivalent; the closest I could come up with is “mignon,” which means “cute” and doesn't quite fit the bill for this slight-yet-charming piece of Gallic fluff.
Photo Flash: Meet the Stars of Ricky Ian Gordon's 27 at Pittsburgh Opera
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Pittsburgh Opera continues its 77th season with the Pittsburgh premiere of Ricky Ian Gordon's 27. Spotlighting larger-than-life novelist, poet, playwright, and Pittsburgh native Gertrude Stein and her partner Alice B. Toklas, 27 will delight you with Ricky Ian Gordon's 'tuneful score' and Royce Vavrek's 'quick-witted libretto.' BroadwayWorld has a sneak peek at the stars in costume below!
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Pittsburgh Opera continues its 77th season with the Pittsburgh premiere of Ricky Ian Gordon's 27. Spotlighting larger-than-life novelist, poet, playwright, and Pittsburgh native Gertrude Stein and her partner Alice B. Toklas, 27 will delight you with Ricky Ian Gordon's 'tuneful score' and Royce Vavrek's 'quick-witted libretto.' BroadwayWorld has a sneak peek at the stars in costume below!
Houston Grand Opera to Premiere Carlisle Floyd's PRINCE OF PLAYERS, 3/5
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Houston, February 8, 2016—Houston Grand Opera (HGO) will present the world premiere of Prince of Players by distinguished American composer Carlisle Floyd on March 5, 11, and 13, 2016. A chamber opera in two acts, Prince of Players is a high-spirited period piece that examines the fluidity of sexuality and gender roles.
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Houston, February 8, 2016—Houston Grand Opera (HGO) will present the world premiere of Prince of Players by distinguished American composer Carlisle Floyd on March 5, 11, and 13, 2016. A chamber opera in two acts, Prince of Players is a high-spirited period piece that examines the fluidity of sexuality and gender roles.
Renee Fleming Returning to Carnegie Hall with Pianist Olga Kern, 3/9
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Acclaimed American soprano Renee Fleming performs in recital with pianist Olga Kern on Wednesday, March 9 at 8:00 p.m. in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage. The program includes Robert Schumann's Frauenliebe und -leben, Op. 42, Debussy's Ariettes oubliees, and a selection of songs by Rachmaninoff. Ms. Fleming and Ms. Kern close their program with five songs by jazz musician and composer Patricia Barber.
by BWW News Desk - February 09, 2016
Acclaimed American soprano Renee Fleming performs in recital with pianist Olga Kern on Wednesday, March 9 at 8:00 p.m. in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage. The program includes Robert Schumann's Frauenliebe und -leben, Op. 42, Debussy's Ariettes oubliees, and a selection of songs by Rachmaninoff. Ms. Fleming and Ms. Kern close their program with five songs by jazz musician and composer Patricia Barber.
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